Apretando (en. Squeeze)

/a.pɾeˈtando/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
verb
To exert force or pressure on something or someone.
She is tightening the bottle so that the water does not spill.
Ella está apretando la botella para que no se derrame el agua.
To adjust or compress something.
The mechanic is tightening the car's nuts.
El mecánico está apretando las tuercas del coche.
To hold something firmly with one's hands.
He is squeezing his friend's hand to console him.
Él apretando la mano de su amigo para consolarlo.

Etymology

It derives from the verb 'apretar', which comes from the Latin 'aptare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tightening the nuts
Forcing someone to act or to comply with something.
apretando las tuercas
gritting teeth
Staying firm in a difficult situation.
apretando dientes
tightening the belt
Reducing expenses or adjusting resources.
apretando el cinturón

Related Words

apretar
Verb that indicates the action of exerting pressure.
apretar
apretón
The action of tightening; it can refer to a greeting or gesture of affection.
apretón
tight
That is compressed or fitted.
apretado

Slang Meanings

To be in a complicated or stressful situation.
I am tightening with so many things I have to do.
Estoy apretando con tantas cosas que tengo que hacer.
To act with urgency or speed due to pressure.
We have to tighten up if we want to finish on time.
Tenemos que apretar si queremos terminar a tiempo.